Spontaneous coronary artery dissection: An uncommon cause of cardiac arrest in the young

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an uncommon cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
• SCAD often presents atypically and affects young, healthy individuals, leading to potential diagnostic delays.
• Underdiagnosis of SCAD can result in inadequate management and adverse patient outcomes.

Observation:

• A young female presented with cardiac arrest.
• Initial laboratory results and diagnostic tests were inconclusive.
• The patient was ultimately diagnosed with SCAD.

Findings:

• SCAD diagnosis can be challenging due to its rarity and variable presentation.
• Young, healthy demographics of SCAD patients may lower clinical suspicion.
• Timely diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for SCAD patients.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering SCAD in young patients presenting with cardiac emergencies, even with non-specific initial findings.
• Increased awareness and improved diagnostic strategies for SCAD are needed.
• Reviewing SCAD pathogenesis, risk factors, and management recommendations is vital for clinicians.